Accessible Holidays Tips & Advice Member Stories

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With a little research, an assertive attitude and an adventurous spirit, backed up with knowledge of personal rights for the disabled, travel is becoming accessible to everyone.

Accessible Holidays

Ireland

http://www.discoverireland.ie/Accommodation/irish-accessible-accommodation.aspx
Fáilte Ireland has developed a new scheme for the validation and provision of information on registered and approved accommodation that provides for those with disabilities. There are four categories of accessibility explained on the website as well as contact details for all listed accessible accommodation.

www.cuisle.com
‘The Centre that never sleeps’, Cuisle is situated in Donamon on the River Suck, Co.Roscommon. Not only does Cuisle provide accessible holiday accommodation, they also provide highly trained staff giving any support you may need. If you are looking to take a break from city life Cuisle is the place to go. You can also partake in the many activities available down there, fishing, bowling, boat trips and much more!!

www.accessibleireland.com
The idea behind Accessible Ireland is to make travelling within Ireland easy and effortless. Accessible Ireland was established in January 2007. You will find a growing list of moderate to luxury accommodation, top class restaurants, traditional to modern pubs, visitor attractions, venues, transport and amenities throughout Ireland. These are graded according to their accessibility.

www.bocgases.ie
BOC Medispeed can cater for tourists in need of Home and Ambulatory Oxygen when in Ireland.

www.mcnamarascottages.com
Information on an accessible holiday cottage near Nenagh, Co. Tipperary.

http://www.sharevillage.org
Share is Northern Ireland and Ireland's largest residential outdoor activity centre welcoming over 15,000 visitors each year. Based on Smiths Strand near Lisnakea in Fermanagh they have the ideal waterside location for an activity based Holiday Village. They can accommodate all people from all backgrounds in large numbers.

United Kingdom

http://www.calvert-trust.org.uk/
For over 30 years, Calvert Trust has been enabling people with disabilities, together with their families and friends, to achieve their potential through outdoor adventure activities in the countryside. Today its three centres welcome over 11,000 visitors each year, helping them challenge disability through outdoor adventure and providing more opportunities to find out that "it's what you CAN do that counts!"

www.accessibletravel.co.uk
This online travel agent can tailor a holiday to meet your specific requirements. Whether you need to ensure ground floor accommodation, handrails, or any other special facilities, they source appropriate accommodation and services.

www.everybody.co.uk
This site is based around the concept that all services listed can be used by anyone, able bodied or disabled. A difference between this and other disability related hotel directories is that it lists only mainstream hotels, and not just those owned by disability organisations.

www.jst.org.uk
JST is the only organisation in the world offering tall ship sailing holidays to people with physical disabilities. The JST owns and operates two tall ships, LORD NELSON, and TENACIOUS. These magnificent ships have been purpose-designed and built to enable a crew of mixed physical abilities to sail side by side on equal terms. Whether it's a short hop around the British coast, a four-week transatlantic challenge, a week's island hopping in the Canary Islands, the Caribbean; or a place in the European Tall Ships' Race - with the JST you can do it all!

www.disabledgo.info
DisabledGo is an ambitious internet service, which offers access information on all cities in the UK regarding places to eat and drink, accessible public toilets, accommodation, tourist information and plenty more! This innovative service is opening up towns and cities across the UK.

www.tourismforall.org.uk
Tourism for All (formerly Holiday Care) is a national UK charity that provides holiday and travel information to older and disabled people. Rather than organise holidays, they provide information about transport, accommodation, visitor attractions, activity holidays and respite care establishments, both in the UK and overseas.

www.undiscoveredbritain.com
Undiscovered Britain caters to independent travelers who long to experience the off-the-beaten-track treasures of the ‘real’ Britain and Ireland. Founder Ann Litt is also very familiar with accessibility issues throughout Britain and Ireland, and she makes specific notes about accessibility when she inspects properties.

www.disabledholidayinfo.org.uk
Information about holidays in the UK for people with disabilities including wheelchair accessible visitor attractions, activities and accommodation is contained within this site.

www.theukweb.com/disabledholidays
With 3 self-catering holiday homes, this company provide the best possible holiday facilities for disabled people who need more than just wheelchair access.

www.holidaycare.org.uk
UK charity offering holiday and travel information in Britain and overseas for people with disabilities and older people.

www.vitalise.org.uk
Vitalise provide short breaks for disabled people and carers at accessible Centres in the UK. Each Centre offers short breaks in a relaxed, holiday style environment with a variety of trips and activities. Guests are supported by volunteers who provide companionship and assistance.

Rest of Europe

www.accessibleholidays.net
Allowing disabled people to travel worry free! This site was set up by a wheelchair user himself. Various destinations in Europe, USA and the Caribbean are reviewed. There also contact details of companies who can make your trip less stressful such as organizing accessible airport transfers.

www.player.pt
While the Algarve is traditionally an old inaccessible area, access is starting to improve. This site has very helpful information about accessible accommodation, activities, transport, and equipment for hire in the Algarve.

www.accessatlast.com
The specific details and customer reviews displayed provide the very information needed when deciding where to go, and where to stay. This site offers accessible accommodation information throughout Europe, Scandinavia, and the USA.

www.ineedaholidaytoo.com
Based on the banks of the River Jaudy in La Roche Derrien, the north coast of Brittany in France, there are six accessible apartments only ten minutes away from the beaches, several towns and all the other attractions you would expect on a holiday. They accept group bookings and large family bookings without hesitation. Other services on offer are, support workers, accessible adapted transport and also several pieces of equipment.

www.accessibleandalucia.com
Two wheelchair accessible self catering holiday villas in the Province of Granada, Andalucia, Southern Spain.They also offer a range of different services such as accessible private transfers between the airport and the accommodation and to local accessible restaurants.

www.orangebadge.com
This site offers information to disabled travellers going to Tenerife for sales and hiring of mobility aids, as well as those with walking difficulties who need a little help. They hire, sell and service electric scooters and chairs, manual wheelchairs and have a wide selection of various disability aids, from hoists to commodes, walking frames to crutches. They also provide information on accessible accommodation in Tenerife.

www.supportedholidays.co.uk
Supported Holidays offers two different types of holiday packages to meet the needs of guests. The '24-Hour Fully Inclusive Supported Holiday (FISH) and the (FLEXI) Holiday Package'. The company provides holidays for people with disabilities on the Costa Del Sol, Spain.

www.la-sonrisa.com
This complex in Finestrat located near Benidorm, Spain, have eight adapted holiday villas / apartments and two adapted swimming pools.

www.laspiedras.co.uk
Las Piedras Accessible Holidays provides wheelchair accessible holidays in Spain. They provide guesthouse, apartment & villa options, accessible transport & excursions.

Accessible Holidays
Irish company offering tailor-made accessible holidays for people with disabilities to Tenerife, Majorca and Cyprus. Contact: Accessible Holidays, 9 Shelton Grove, Kimmage Road West, Dublin 12, Ph: 01-455 5675, Email: jpgeraty@eircom.net

www.fundacio60.org
Let's Go Costa Brava! Spanish company offering accommodation and excursions in the Girona - Costa Brava - Pyrenees areas for people with disabilities, older people and their families.

www.disabledaccessholidays.com
Disabled Access Holidays is a website with information on accessible holiday accommodation in Europe and beyond.

www.sunnyrothvillas.com
Holiday homes in Zalakaros, Hungary.

www.dah-europe.com
Disabled Access Holidays Ltd owns and operates accessible self catering holiday accommodation to rent in Puerto Pollensa, Majorca, Balearic Islands, Spain that has been designed and adapted to meet the needs of the disabled traveller.

www.affinity-villas-france.com/olea
Villa L’Olea in France, sleeps 12, has a private heated pool, and is adapted for wheelchair users.

www.apartments-paphos.co.uk/MainHome.asp?a=5362
Wheelchair accessible apartment in Cyprus. It's fully wheelchair accessible and is located only 15 minute when to the harbour in Paphos centre.

www.accessiblespain.com
Information about accessible villas in Andalucia, Spain.

U.S.A

www.accesstours.org
Travel the American west with access tours! Access Tours is a service of Access Institute. This is an American volunteer non profit organisation. This organisation offer a real chance to explore the American west, Southern California, the Grand Canyon, Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks, Yellowstone and Grand Teton Parks, the Canadian Rockies, Mount Rushmore and much more.

www.emerginghorizons.com
Emerging Horizons is a consumer oriented magazine about accessible travel. Emerging Horizons’ primary focus is travel for people with mobility disabilities; everybody from wheelchair-users to slow walkers. Lots of access information, resources, news and travel tips. Primarily focused on travel within the USA.

www.globalaccessnews.com
Accessible Travel for Wheelchair Users & Mobility-Impaired People Global Access provides a site where disabled travelers can share their experiences.

www.disabilitytravel.com
American website containing information (often from personal experience) on travelling in the US and worldwide with a wheelchair.

www.access-able.com
American website which contains comprehensive information on access information and resources for mature travellers and travellers with special needs.

www.accesstours.org
American organisation specialising in all-accessible tours of the American West.

Further Afield

www.access-ability.org/travel
Listing specific wheelchair accessible holidays around the world.

www.accessibleaccommodation.com
Listing wheelchair accessible accommodation worldwide.

www.accessibletravel.com
For resources and information on Wheelchair travel and Accessible vacations

www.toursnz.com
Accessible Kiwi Tours (New Zealand). New Zealand tour company offering holidays for older people and people with disabilities.

www.egyptforall.com
Company offering specialised travel for people with disabilities to Egypt.

www.whenwetravel.com
When We Travel is a website that lists wheelchair accessible hotels from around the world as well as providing information on finding wheelchair accessible hotels.

www.accomobility.co.nz
accomobility.co.nz is a useful reference when seeking accessible accommodation in New Zealand.

www.epic-enabled.com
Always wanted to do a safari? Experience South Africa? Epic Enabled is committed to opening up Africa to ‘Enable’ the ‘Disabled’ traveller through interactive participation tours. Expect the unexpected - but at the same time you are guaranteed travel in a highly planned and carefully structured way.

www.disabilitytravel.com
For ‘Travellers With Wheels’ who want an accessible lifestyle on vacation. Accessible Journeys has been devoted to making the world more accessible for wheelchair travellers by creating elite, exciting and rewarding wheelchair accessible travel programs around the globe. They maintain a global alliance of hand-picked tour operators, receptive agents, hoteliers, guiding services, transportation and equipment companies, who specialize in wheelchair accessible travel.

If you have found a website relating to accessible holidays and want more people to know about it send us the link and a short review of what the site is about. E-mail info@sbhi.ie.

The above contacts are listed for information purposes only. This should not be construed as a recommendation.

In the Air

DUBLIN AIRPORT

Dublin Airport Authority (DAA) is dedicated to providing accessibility for people with reduced mobility throughout its facilities at Dublin Airport.

How To Request Assistance
People with reduced mobility should contact and notify their airline, travel agent or tour operator with details of their assistance requirements at least 48 hours in advance of the departure of their flight. On arrival at Dublin Airport, passengers can either use one of the Help Points located throughout the Airport to gain assistance (locations listed below) or go to the One Complete Solution (OCS) Reception Desk on the Departures floor, to the right hand side when entering Door 2 on Departures. Or if a passenger wishes they can go directly to their Check-in desk and inform airline staff during their check-in that they have requested assistance, at which point a representative from OCS will arrive to provide assistance.

Help Point Locations (Our Help Points are Blue Boxes with an Intercom button for communication)

• Beside the disabled parking area in the Short Term Car Park, Block B, Level 1.
• In the Short Term Car Park Atrium, opposite Greencaps.
• At the lobby doors in the Arrivals Hall, on the right hand wall.
• Lobby door 1 in the Departures Hall, on the right hand wall.
• Long Term Red car park beside bus shelter.

OCS Contact numbers + 353 1 8145906
OCS Customer Service Duty Manager + 353 87 7602477

It is very important that passengers requiring this service ensure that they contact their airline, travel agent or tour operator directly. Onward travel may be affected by the safety rules an air carrier applies to the carriage of persons with reduced mobility.

Set down area on the Departures road
Dedicated set down areas have been allocated on the Departures roads to allow easy access to the Terminal when dropping a passenger off a person with reduced mobility.

Car park facilities for persons with reduced mobility

Short Term
Dublin Airport has more than 50 spaces designated for disabled driver permit holders in the Short Term car park, on the lower ground floor of Block B in front of the terminal building. These spaces are well signed and have been marked out to the recommended width to accommodate wheelchairs.  In addition each space has been treated with a special non slip surface to provide easy movement and access for customers. A valid disability driver permit must be shown at the entrance to the short term car park to access these facilities.

No need to book online!
It is not necessary for people with restricted mobility with a disability permit to book online - a rate of €9.50 per day, lower than the lowest online daily short term rate is available when they present their permit at the Short Term car park.

Long Term
There is a designated area of disabled parking spaces conveniently located within the Long Term Red car park. These spaces are well signed and have been marked out to the recommended width to accommodate wheelchairs.

All passengers including persons with reduced mobility that have valid a disability parking permit can avail of the online pre-booking facility for the Long Term Red car park at the prevailing rate (currently from €5.50 per day).

Fully accessible terminal building

• Specially adapted facilities including toilets and lifts, all clearly signposted.
• A series of induction loops to facilitate the amplification of announcements for passengers with hearing difficulties.
• A counter loop system at the information desk to facilitate clear communication with the information assistants on duty.

DAA is a customer service-oriented organisation. Should you need any assistance at the Airport, please do not hesitate to contact our Customer Relations Agents or any available staff member.  You can also contact our Customer Relations Department on +353 1 814 4717

AER LINGUS

Wheelchair Users
Aer Lingus has no restrictions on the amount of wheelchair users who can fly with them. However, they do advise that you contact Special Assistance Medical Queries on 0818 365011 with flight numbers before making a booking.

Manual Wheelchair users can wheel themselves directly to the aircraft where they can then be transferred onto the plane and there chair will then be stored for them on the craft. All Aer Lingus staff and airport attendants have been fully trained in manually handling and are there to help. If you require assistance contact the above number for Special Assistance.

Power wheelchair users are asked to transfer to a manual chair prior to boarding an Aer Lingus flight. This is in accordance with flight regulations as batteries must be turned off prior to boarding the plane. All Aer Lingus staff and airport attendants have been fully trained in manually handling and are there to help. If you require assistance contact the above number for Special Assistance.

Aer Lingus do not charge extra weight charges for wheelchairs or mobility equipment.

Special Assistance
Passengers are required to provide a minimum of 48 hours notice of their intention to travel. Please contact Aer Lingus Special Assistance at:

Telephone

Ireland: 0818 365011
UK: 0870 8762021
Europe: 00353 1 886 8333
USA: 516 622 4222
E-mail: specialassistance@aerlingus.com

Special Meal Requests
Aer Lingus offers special meals for children and to meet passengers' specific dietary needs on their flights to/from the USA. To request a special meal, please contact their Helpdesk +353 818 365011 (Europe), or 516 622 4222 (U.S.A.) and advise a flight attendant onboard that you have pre-ordered a special meal. Meals can be requested up to 24 hours prior to departure.

Medication
If you need to carry medication onto the plane, which exceeds the 100mls liquid regulations please ensure that you fill out the following form http://www.aerlingus.com/Support/Medical_Incad_form.pdf

Please note that of your medication exceeds 1000mls you will need to contact Dublin Airport Security on 01 814 4300.

Hydrocephalus
Those with Hydrocephalus are advised to contact Special Assistance Medical Queries on 0818 365011 with flight numbers before making a booking. You may be asked to produce a letter from your consultant confirming your ability to fly.

RYANAIR

Wheelchair Users
For safety reasons Ryanair will carry a maximum of four passengers per flight who have either reduced mobility, or are blind/visually impaired travelling with a guide dog or alone or require special assistance at the airport or onboard. Such passengers (including in the case of those who are blind/vision impaired if travelling with a sighted adult companion) should reserve the special assistance during the booking process on www.ryanair.com. Further information can be obtained at http://www.ryanair.com/site/IE/faqs.php?sect=spn&quest=typespecialassist or http://www.ryanair.com/site/IE/faqs.php. Reduced mobility passengers who have pre-advised their condition should arrive at the boarding gate at least 30 minutes prior to the flight departure. They will be boarded after general boarding has been completed and seats will be reserved onboard. Electric Wheelchairs can only be accepted if the battery is dry/gel cell and the dimensions of the wheelchair when collapsed do not exceed 81cms (height), 119cms (width) and 119cms (depth). The passenger must advise us how the battery power is isolated and ensure that exposed terminals will be protected from short circuiting. Ryanair do not charge extra weight charges for wheelchairs or mobility equipment.

Personal Care Assistant
A passenger needs to be accompanied by an (adult – over 16) personal care attendant when a person with an intellectual disability is unable to understand or respond appropriately to safety instructions given by Ryanair staff. Or a deaf-blind person with whom Ryanair staff would not be able to establish communication with.

Passengers should pre-advise either at the time of online booking or via the Ryanair Special Assistance Line (see contact numbers below) - preferably on the same day as booking. Passengers of reduced mobility who have pre-advised their condition should arrive at the boarding gate at least 30 minutes prior to the flight departure.

Medications
If you need to carry medication onto the plane, which exceeds the 100mls liquid regulations you will need to contact Ryanair Special Assistance on 01 2480858 who will send you a document stating that you can take medication on board which exceeds the 100mls regulations. However this letter will need to be accompanied by a letter from your doctor or consultant confirming your need to carry this medication with you. You will be required to carry both documents with you at all times while you are travelling.

Please note that of your medication exceeds 1000mls you will need to contact Dublin Airport Security on 01 814 4300.

Hydrocephalus
Ryanair only requests medical clearance when fitness to travel is in doubt. Examples include recent illness, hospitalisation, injury, surgery or a long standing condition when special services may be required e.g. oxygen or authority to carry special medical equipment. Passengers with medical conditions such as heart disease or breathing difficulties are recommended to discuss their journey with their doctor prior to making a reservation.

Special Assistance
Passengers requiring special assistance or who are of reduced mobility must pre-advise their condition and pre-book any assistance (if required) through the Ryanair Special Assistance Line numbers detailed below.

Telephone

IRELAND: 01 2480858
UK: 0871 2460003
FRANCE: 0039 0269300302
BELGIUM: 0902 88007 (Fre) or 0902 88009 (Eng)
ITALY: 0039 0269300302
GERMANY: 0900 116 0500
AUSTRIA: 0900 210240
HOLLAND: 0900 2022184
SPAIN: 807 181 881
REST OF EUROPE: 0044 871 246 0003

Please note call costs from landline and mobile phones may vary depending on network operator and may cost more than charge shown.

On the Ground: Buses and Trains

IRISH RAIL

Whenever possible, please let Irish Rail know in advance of your travel plans so that arrangements can be made for you to have as comfortable a journey as possible. If it is not possible to contact us, we will do our utmost to provide assistance.

Similar arrangements can also be made at your destination station and at an intermediate station if you need to change trains. For further information on station accessibility visit http://www.irishrail.ie/your_journey/your_station.asp

Irish Rail are better able to assist you if you contact us as far in advance as possible, but try to give at least 24-hours' notice of your journey.

When contacting your local station or the accessibility office, please give the following details:

• Date of travel and departure time of the train.
• Destination station and any intermediate stations where a change of train is necessary.
• Nature of disability.
• Means of transport to and from departure and arrival stations e.g. taxi, private car and whether someone is meeting you at your destination.
• Whether you will be travelling alone or with a companion.
• Whether assistance will be required at the departure and arrival stations and if so how staff will be able to identify you.
• Any other details to assist railway staff or which you wish to clarify.

Please give similar details about your return journey, if known, particularly if you are returning the same day or within a few days. If you need to cancel a journey for which special arrangements have been made, please let us know so that staff can be made available to assist others.

Train timetables are available from all stations as well as travel centres in Dublin, Cork and Belfast. For timetables for Intercity, Suburban Rail and the DART visit http://www.irishrail.ie/your_journey/timetables.asp

Trains
Trains require a ramp to permit boarding from the platform to the carriages. A special portable ramp is used for this purpose. These are currently available at all staffed stations and on board some trains. At some stations there is a gap between the platform and the carriage. This may create difficulty for the mobility and visually impaired and assistance may be required.

There is a dedicated wheelchair accessible space in the dining car of the older trains. All dining cars in the older fleet have been modified to provide wheelchair access and accommodation. The new carriages have all been designed with accessibility in mind.

In the event of more than 6 wheelchair users travelling, Irish Rail require advance notice to facilitate the removal of seats and tables from a coach so that the necessary accommodation can be provided.

A small number of services are operated by coaches which are not accessible to wheelchair users, so advance notice or enquiry will ensure that customers are not disappointed.

Further Assistance
If you require further information please visit http://www.irishrail.ie/contact_us/contact_disabled_access.asp

BUS ÉIREANN
Bus Éireann states that they are ‘committed to the provision of a fully accessible public transport system and infrastructure. We are represented on the Public Transport Accessibility Committee (PTAC), which was established under the Programme for Prosperity and Fairness in July 2000’. However, as of October 2009 Bus Eireann can only facilitate one wheelchair passenger on each bus and this is restricted to certain routes. For further information please visit http://www.buseireann.ie/bubble.php?id=186 for contact details and enquiries.

At Sea

STENA LINE

With the exception of the Larne to Fleetwood route all Stena Line ferries are wheelchair accessible. There are a number of wheelchair accessible cabins also available. Stena Line recommends that you contact them in advance of booking to ensure that travel needs are met. For route information and further details please visit http://www.stenaline.ie

IRISH FERRIES

Irish Ferries is committed to making travel on their services as easy and comfortable as possible for wheelchair users and all ports used by Irish Ferries are wheelchair friendly. Please note that for safety reasons the maximum number of wheelchairs that can be accommodated on any one sailing is six.

Vehicles driven by physically disabled drivers may use the Dublin Port tunnel without charge  (vehicles must be specially adapted for physically disabled drivers and the owners must have a concessionary pass - please check details with Dublin port tunnel management).

Self-identification is very important so that your booking can be flagged for disability awareness. Please contact Irish Ferries at least 3 days before travel if you or any member of your party has special needs. For further detailed information visit http://www.irishferries.com/passengers-with-disabilities.asp

Irish Ferries can offer help in the following ways:

• Your vehicle can be positioned close to the lift on the car deck.
• Wheelchairs are available for passenger use in all terminals.
• Hearing loops are available at Irish Ferries receptions desks in the terminal buildings.

Facilities

Ships	Adapted Cabins	Accessible	Adapted Toilets	Lift
Isle of Inishmore	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Oscar Wilde	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Dublin Swift	No	Yes	Yes	Yes
Ulysses	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes

Ports	Accessible	Adapted Toilets	Lift
Dublin	Yes	Yes	Yes
Cherbourg	Yes	Yes	Yes
Holyhead	Yes	Yes	Yes
Pembroke	Yes	Yes	Ramp
Roscoff	Yes	Yes	N/A
Rosslare	Yes	Yes	Ramp

For further information on Irish Ferries please visit www.irishferries.com

AT YOUR HOTEL

Unfortunately accessibility can vary from one hotel to the next. Please remember that accessibility can have a different meaning in each hotel. Some may state that they are accessible, but the question you want to ask is to whom are they accessible? Is it to a person with restricted mobility ie. someone who uses a walking stick or are they accessible to a wheelchair user. The last thing you want is be surprised after a long trip by finding that you can't use the bathroom in your supposedly accessible hotel room.

Try to talk to people who work at the hotel where you'll be staying. Ask for the direct number for your hotel not the 1800 as these are often manned by reservation clerks who aren't located anywhere near the hotel. Instead, call the hotel's direct number and ask to speak to the duty manager. Tell him or her exactly what you need: How wide are the doors? Does the bathroom have a roll-in shower and grab bars? What about a handheld shower spray? No one knows your travelling needs better than you, so if you need a shower chair it's up to you to make sure that the hotel actually has it.

Every reservation should be confirmed in writing through a letter, fax or email and make sure the hotel includes confirmation of your accessibility requirements. If you're travelling overseas, send your message with the international wheelchair symbol on it to remind the hotel that a person with a disability is travelling.

BEFORE YOU LEAVE HOME

As the number of wheelchair travellers has increased, attitudes and conditions are improving worldwide. Pre-trip planning is important for all travellers, but absolutely crucial for those with disabilities. The Internet will simplify your research considerably, and there is a wealth of very helpful information out there.

VACCINES FOR TRAVELLERS

People with Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus travelling to countries where vaccines are recommended (e.g. yellow fever, typhoid etc) should receive exactly the same vaccinations as any other traveller.

This information does not constitute as medical advice for any individual. As specific cases may vary from the general information presented here, SBHI advises readers to consult a qualified medical or other professional on an individual basis.

Tips & Advice

The following are some general tips that will help you get where you're going and enjoy yourself once you get there:

• When flying arrive with plenty of time-up to two hours before departure
• Keep a folder with you which has all your documentation e.g. tickets, medical letters passports contact numbers for special assistance etc.
• Ensure that all liquids and medications which you are taking onboard the plane are packed in clear plastic bags and placed at the top of your hand language for easy access.
• Keep a roll of tape with you so that you can secure any parts of your wheel chair which may fall off or get damaged, such as headrests or footrests or ask if you can take them with you into the cabin.
• Make sure your chair has both your name and address and a proper airline tag conspicuously attached to it.
• About an hour before landing, ask the flight attendant to radio ahead for anything you might need upon arrival, including an aisle chair and your own chair brought to the air craft. Check your chair for damage before you leave.
• If you do have a problem, save all tickets, receipts, dates, times and names.
• If you're a travel novice, don't stray too far from the beaten path at first. Attractions such as Disney World have the resources to offer fairly complete accessibility.
• When possible, fly direct. Be aware of your rights while flying and be prepared to demand the accommodations to which you are legally entitled.
• Bring a few basic maintenance tools with you.
• Plan out ground transportation in advance. If you need an accessible taxi, try to reserve them ahead of time.
• The local tourist board is an excellent source of advice and help. Contact them before you travel for further information about your needs.
• When checking out possible hotels, don't forget to ask about the accessibility of their restaurants, pools and shops, in addition to confirming the accessibility of the room itself.
• There are travel certificates and travel passports for those with Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus available. For more information contact the National Resource Centre on 01 457 2329.
• Don’t forget your Shunt Alert Card. For more information contact the National Resource Centre on 01 457 2329.

Before booking or thinking about organising a trip abroad try going out on your own at home first. When going out on your own for the first time, you need to think ahead. Here are some practical suggestions:

• Get organized
• Start by choosing local journeys
• Tell someone where you’re going and when you’re expected back
• Take a friend with you
• Ring up first to check that your destination (where you’re going) is accessible
• Charge up your mobile phone and check you have plenty of call time.
• Check on the type of transport and travelling times. Information can be obtained from: Libraries, Travel Centres, Yellow Pages, Internet, Local disability group, Citiezens Inforamtion Centres)
• Make and have with you a checklist to ensure you have money, key, mobile phone etc.
• Check that you know your mobile phone number. This is useful if you need someone to ring with help/information. Also – have a pen and spare paper handy for further directions if needed and a local A-Z
• Make sure you can manage any sections of the journey when you have to push your wheelchair.
• When you arrive at your destination/drop-off point – check that you will be picked up from the same place and confirm the time. Then note how long it will take you to get back to the pick-up point/shop/station.
• Work out different options: e.g. find out which DART stations (if any) are accessible and also bus options.

Know Your Destination

• It’s important to research the accessibility standards for your destination. Some countries have non-discrimination laws to help people with disabilities and others do not, so it’s important to know what you can expect and to plan accordingly.
• It’s true for any traveller that your trip will be safer and more enjoyable if you plan ahead.
• Once you decide where you are going, research your options for assistance with luggage, getting on and off the plane, moving through the terminal, and transportation options to your hotel.
• Bring extra medication. Many experts advise that you travel with two complete packages of essential medication in case of emergency. Store all medications and other necessary medical supplies in your carry-on bag.
• Investigate physician availability where you will be travelling. Your doctor, health care provider, insurance company or local embassy (Visit http://embassy.independenttraveler.com) can provide the names and contact numbers of physicians at your destination.
• Avoid connecting flights. Although wheelchairs are the last items to be checked into the luggage compartments, and thus first to be pulled off, flying direct can save you unnecessary time and hassle. One exception: If you have trouble manoeuvring into airplane bathrroms, long flights may become uncomfortable -- so a series of shorter flights might be a better option. If you do choose to connect, be sure to allow plenty of time between flights (we'd recommend at least 90 minutes) to get from one gate to the next
• Make sure you have good insurance cover

The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)

• If you are an EU/EEA national and are travelling or staying temporarily in another state of the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland, you are entitled to receive medical care if you become ill or have an accident.
• If you are a student or a seconded worker, or if you are entitled to a social security pension in that state, you will be then be entitled to health care beyond the immediate treatment.
• The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) replaced the E111 form and a number of other 'E' forms including the E128, making it easier for you to get medical care quickly and easily. It is evidence that you are part of a health insurance scheme administered by another state in the EEA/Switzerland. To obtain healthcare with the Card, you can go to the nearest public system doctor, public hospital, or other public treatment centre and present your Card.
• Public health care systems vary from country to country, and few countries pay the full cost of health care for holders of the Card, so there may be some element of co-payment for the services you receive.
• Currently, the EEA comprises the 27 member states of the European Union together with Iceland, Norway and Liechtenstein. Your European Health Insurance Card is valid for use throughout any of these countries and in Switzerland.

Where can I use my European Health Insurance Card?

• In any EU/EEA Country and in Switzerland. Visit http://www.hse.ie/eng/Find_a_Service/EHIC/Healthcare_services_in_other_EU_EEA_countries.html to find out where you can use your Card and how to access care aboard
• If the country you are visiting is not among those listed, you cannot use a European Health Insurance Card there and you should obtain private health insurance instead.
• Andorra and Monaco are not part of the EU (they are separate principalities). As they are not part of the EU, they are not subject to EU regulations and your European Health Insurance Card is not acceptable there. You are advised to obtain private health insurance instead.

Can non-EU nationals apply for and use European Health Insurance Cards?

• On 1 June 2003 Regulation 859/2003 entered into force throughout the EU. This means that any non-EU national, their family members or survivors legally resident in the territory of an EU member state may apply for and use a European Health Insurance Card or Temporary Replacement Certificate while on temporary visits between member states.

How to apply for your European Health Insurance Card

• You may apply on line for your EHIC if you are currently resident in Ireland and you already have either a medical card or a Drugs Payment Scheme (DPS) card. Visit https://www.sspcrs.ie/ehic/e111info.jsp for details of applying on line. Your online application will be forwarded to the HSE Primary Care Re-imbursement Service) for processing. Your Card or Certificate will then be posted out to you.
• Alternatively, you can download a European Health Insurance Card application form at http://www.hse.ie/eng/Find_a_Service/EHIC/EHIC_Application_Form.pdf. If you are applying for a Temporary Replacement Certificate, write 'Temporary Replacement Certificate' on the form.
• Complete the form and return it to your Local Health Office at least 1 month before you leave Ireland.

NOW YOU HAVE EVERYTHING PLANNED – DON’T FORGET TO ENJOY YOURSELF

MEMBER’S STORIES

The Big Apple

Having been to and fallen in love with New York I have been asked to write and tell you about my experiences of travelling abroad and why I would recommend New York to anyone looking for an accessible holiday destination.

I travelled with a friend of mine to New York for 7 nights of shopping and sightseeing! We flew over with Continental Airlines found them to provide an excellent service to people like myself as there were several disabled people on board. The only thing to point out is that the flight is seven hours long if going directly to New York so obviously care needs to be taken with circulation etc if movement is limited as in my case. I needed very little help at the airports in general but assistance was available at all times if it was needed. I found immigration to be very accommodation although people using wheelchairs are searched more thoroughly than able bodied people which was a little bit daunting.

On leaving New York Airport on route to Manhatten there was the usual worry about finding accessible travel however taxis were literally queuing up outside the airport and there was no awkwardness about carrying a passenger with a disability.

We stayed in a hotel called the “Pennsylvania Hotel” right in the centre of Manhatten. This hotel was clean and very basic but the disabled bathroom facilities in the rooms were excellent and the rooms themselves were easy to access. We stayed on a room only basis but there were two American style diners in the hotel which were convenient for food.

The access in New York is amazing. To go somewhere as ordinary as McDonald’s and to have (a) a wide door into the building (b) specific large tables set aside especially for wheelchairs users and signs to say that able bodied will be asked to move if the tables are needed by disabled people, the feeling is fantastic. I found I was never given “special” treatment over there but likewise was never 88looked down on as can happen in some places. I was simply treated as one of the crowd going about my business. It was a great feeling to be able to take that for granted.

The sights in New York are all pretty much accessible. Again, to go into somewhere like Madame Tausands and take for granted that it is accessible rather than telephone ahead is brilliant. Incidentally I would recommend Madame Tausands, it’s closest I will ever get to having my picture taken with Jon Bon Jovi!

Other amenities that are worth seeing are the Empire State Building which was completely accessible, Ellis Island for the history lovers, Statue of Liberty and Time Square. All are completely accessible. My favourite land mark however was Macy’s, the largest shopping centre in the world! We were literally around the corner from it and needless to say spent a lot of time in it1 We also visited the M & M store and Toys R Us complete with GIGANTIC Ferris Wheel in-store! (Incidentally I was told if I wanted to go on the Ferris Wheel it was no problem I would be assisted – not for me but possibly a big kids dream!)

Another thing worth mentioning is the tour buses as they are a very worthwhile way of seeing all the sights New York has to offer. All of the buses in general are ramped and you can get on and off as you like.

If I was to criticise one thing about New York it would be the quality of the street paving. All the foot paths are ramped however some of these paths are in bad repair and there were quite a few times where I nearly came out of my chair as the paths are uneven. Caution is needed!

In conclusion I would recommend it without a doubt as a holiday destination but of course its up to the individual to decide whether its right for them or not. For me it beats inaccessible sandy beaches any day.

I hope I have given you an idea as to what New York has to offer the disabled traveller and something to think about when planning your next holiday! Wicklow Member

The Trip Of A Lifetime Down Under

My holiday to Australia started on Friday the first of August 2008. I set out with my Mom and sister from Castlebridge, Co. Wexford, at 4.30am.

We arrived in Melbourne on Saturday the 2nd. It was a long trip bearing in mind Australia in nine hours ahead of us here in Ireland. Forgetting the exhaustion and jet-lag and overcome with excitement I was ready for Australia.

We spent four nights in Melbourne and I have to say it was the highlight of my trip. A good friend of mine “Elissa” met us. I met Elissa in 2002 when she spent some time in Ireland and we have remained friends ever since. We have always managed to keep in touch throughout the year. My family and I received a very warm Australian welcome from Elissa and her family. She showed us around Melbourne. We went to Ramsey St, where they film ‘Neighbours’. Elissa took us on a tram around Melbourne. It was wheelchair accessible. We also spent some time shopping and ate a fabulous meal I Southbank.

From Melbourne we flew to Brisbane. Here we visited a ‘Seaworld’ and got to sample what types of fish live in the shores of Australia. We also went to an Australian outback centre. Steve Irwin’s family have a Zoo in his honour in Brisbane. It was the first time I ever got to hold a crocodile and yes I still managed to keep a smile on my face.

From Brisbane we flew up to Cairns. The heat hit my face as soon as we got off the plane. It was lovely. I remember the beautiful esplanade that was very wheelchair accessible. While in Cairns we took a few day trips. The hotel was very accommodating. We were able to book a wheelchair accessible bus to bring us from our hotel to where the tour began. We took a trip to Green Island. This package included our lunch and there was a coffee shop/restaurant on site. We were able to get a glimpse of the magical world of the Great Barrier Reef.

While in Cairns we took a day trip to Kuranda – a beautiful village up in the rainforest.

We got to see some magnificent waterfalls. From Kuranda we took a sky rail trip over the rainforest. It was out of this world and very entertaining to see Pam Foley (my mom) scared out of her skin. We survived the sky rail trip and finished our day with a visit to the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park. I really enjoyed trying out the boomerang. Later we got a sample here of the aboriginal way of life. This included a buffet BBQ.

From Cairns we flew back down to Sydney. We found it much cooler in Sydney. What a city! I would highly recommend it. The beautiful Opera House and the Harbour Bridge. We enjoyed a cruise around Sydney harbour. We had wished to take a cruise where you could enjoy a meal on board however the only accessible boat they had didn’t offer this.

Sydney Tower was like a magical experience. Here we got to have lunch at the top floor of the tower. The restaurant revolves very slowly. You would hardly even notice only that the scenes change. It’s a fantastic opportunity to see the city by night with all the lights.

We enjoyed some shopping in Sydney and managed to catch up with a neighbour from home. A great spot to meet plenty of Irish. We finished our amazing trip with a spectacular show “Phantom of the Opera”. It was a night to remember. As holidays go I had the holiday of a lifetime. I would highly recommend Australia. In August, when we travelled, there was a state in Australia that had weather to suit all. We found that Australians to be beautiful, friendly and very laid back. Because we speak English there is no language barrier making things easier. They have a great variety of food to suit all needs. My favourite was their ice cream. I have to admit I didn’t care for the chocolate over there.

We flew from Dublin-London-Hong Kong-Melbourne. Returning via Sydney-Singapore-London-Dublin.

I would recommend Australia as a holiday destination and I’d go back there in the morning.

Tips for anyone travelling to Australia;

Ring the airport two or three days beforehand to let them know you are a wheelchair user.

I found Melbourne airport to be excellent as regards wheelchair support, however Sydney airport was poor. Again I would ring the airport in advance. Wexford Member

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